India is a nation celebrated for its rich tapestry of diversity, culture, and history, offering a plethora of captivating experiences at every turn. Below, we introduce you to the top 10 cities in India that beckon travellers for an unforgettable sightseeing journey.
Indore
Indore, the cleanest city in India for six consecutive years, is the largest and most densely populated city in central India, known for its rich history, monuments, food, and markets. Major festivals include Rangpanchami and Ahilya Utsav, celebrated in honour of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. It’s a shopping paradise, with Sitalamata Bazaar offering Maheshwari and Chanderi sarees. Indore boasts numerous multi-cuisine restaurants serving Indian, Chinese, and international dishes, and local favourites like Poha and Jalebi are popular among visitors.
Agra
Agra is a must-visit city in India famous for the iconic Taj Mahal, a Mughal masterpiece dedicated to Shah Jahan’s beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It’s a top destination for history enthusiasts and romantics.
Jaipur
Jaipur, known as the “Pink City” of Rajasthan, is renowned for its vibrant architecture and intricate lattice doors. It’s a lively city rich in Indian history, making it a top destination. Explore Amer Fort and Nahargarh Fort for a captivating journey back in time.
Delhi
Delhi, India’s capital, blends old-world charm in Old Delhi with modernity in New Delhi. It’s a dynamic city with endless attractions. Highlights include the historic Red Fort and India Gate, both iconic symbols. Don’t miss Humayun’s Tomb, a grand testament to India’s rich heritage.
Mumbai
Mumbai, the heartbeat of Indian cinema, is renowned for Bollywood, the Gateway of India, and Juhu Chowpatty. A hub of dreamers and hardworking individuals, it boasts stunning colonial architecture, diverse markets, temples, upscale restaurants, and a unique nightlife. Originally, Mumbai was a collection of seven islands that later merged to become Bombay.
Kolkata
Kolkata, known for Kulcha, Durga Puja, and Victoria Memorial, is a cultural hub in India. It was once India’s capital, ruled by the British—the birthplace of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Howrah Bridge, the world’s sixth-longest cantilever truss bridge, crosses the Hooghly River, handling heavy traffic with over 100,000 cars and 150,000 pedestrians daily, making it the busiest cantilever bridge globally.
Varanasi
Varanasi, a sacred city in India, is renowned for its bank of river, Ghats and is a significant religious and meditative hub in Hinduism. It’s a revered pilgrimage destination where Hindus believe that dying here grants salvation from the cycle of rebirth. Don’t miss trying the famous Banarasi Paan, popularized in Bollywood movies and songs.
Manali
Manali is a renowned honeymoon destination with stunning snow-capped peaks in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district. Often called the “Valley of the Gods,” it boasts natural beauty and rich culture. Adventure enthusiasts can train in trekking, mountaineering, skiing, and water sports at the nearby Mountaineering Institute. Manali also offers fishing opportunities in the Tirthan and Sainj rivers, with organized fishing tours and tournaments by the Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department in April and September-October.
Hyderabad
Hyderabad, also known as the City of Pearls, serves as the capital of both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Named after Queen Hyder Mahal, wife of Qutb Shah, this ancient city boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, impressive heritage sites, traditional crafts, and captivating dance forms. Hyderabad is also renowned as the hub of Tollywood, Andhra Pradesh’s film industry. Don’t miss trying the famous Hyderabadi Biryani, a culinary delight that reflects the royal heritage of the region, alongside the exquisite Shahi Nizam cuisine known for its opulent and aromatic flavors.
Pondicherry
Pondicherry maintains its French influence with charming tree-lined streets and Mediterranean-style houses, offering a unique non-Indian ambiance. The main draw here is water sports, including scuba diving, scuba jumping, and surfing courses. Auroville, an experimental township promoting unity among people of diverse backgrounds, is another significant attraction, drawing tourists seeking spiritual retreats and meditation over material pursuits.
